History’s most iconic hi-fi headphones

4719

Published on 31 March 2025

Discover a selection of the most iconic hi-fi headphones in history, from the first emblematic models to the most recent audiophile references. From technical innovations to quintessential designs, these wired headphones have marked their era and won over countless music lovers.

See all headphones on Son-Vidéo.com

The world’s first audio headphones were invented in 1910 by Nathaniel Baldwin, a self-taught American engineer. He built his first prototypes at home and presented them to the US Navy, which immediately adopted them to improve radio communications. These early headphones were unamplified, heavy and bulky, and intended for military use rather than for the general public.

The evolution of audio headphones was then marked by several major innovations, including the invention of stereo headphones by John C. Koss in 1958.

Koss SP/3 (1958)

The Koss SP/3 are regarded as the first stereo audio headphones for the general public. This model revolutionized music listening, offering a truly immersive and intimate experience. With its voluminous design and leather-covered metal headband, it laid the foundations for the modern hi-fi headphone, although its sound performance remains rudimentary by today’s standards.

The Koss SP/3, the first consumer stereo headphones, revolutionized music listening with their innovative design, marking the beginnings of modern hi-fi headphones.

These headphones made history by popularizing the idea of private, high-fidelity listening sessions, particularly among audiophiles and musicians. Their launch coincided with the rise of stereo recording, reinforcing their impact on the audio world. Although now technologically outdated, the Koss SP/3 remain an iconic creation, symbolizing the beginning of the audio headphones era.

First stereo headphones
Dynamic transducers
Materials: metal and plastic
Introductory price: €18.95

Koss Porta Pro (1984)

The Koss Porta Pro continue the tradition of innovation initiated by Koss with the SP/3. After revolutionizing private listening with the first stereo headphones, the brand continued its commitment by offering ever more high-performance models adapted to new listening habits. With the Porta Pro, Koss succeeded in combining portability, comfort, lightness and musical quality, and they remain iconic headphones to this day.

Combining vintage design with modern engineering, the Koss Porta Pro headphones have stood the test of time.

With its adjustable metal headband, “Comfort Zone” system and instantly recognizable folding design, the Porta Pro quickly became a must-have for music lovers on the move. Still in production today, in a wireless version, these headphones embody the brand’s heritage, combining retro style with modernity.

On-ear headphones, open-back
Dynamic transducers
Frequency response: 15Hz – 25kHz
Impedance: 60 ohms
Weight: approx. 59g
Introductory price: €49

Sennheiser HD 414 (1968)

Where Koss introduced intimate listening with the SP/3 and portability with the Porta Pro, another pair of headphones made history by radically changing headset design: the Sennheiser HD 414, launched in 1968. The world’s first open-back hi-fi headphones, they revolutionized the market by offering a more natural, spacious sound. Their lightweight design and iconic yellow foam pads also contributed to their phenomenal success.
With over 10 million units sold, the HD 414 remain one of the most popular headphones in history. Their innovative approach inspired numerous models, including the Sennheiser HD 600 (1997) and the Sennheiser HD800 (2009), for example.

As the first open-back hi-fi headphones, the Sennheiser HD 414 revolutionized the market with their natural, spacious sound.

On-ear headphones, open-back
Dynamic transducers
Frequency response: approx. 20Hz – 20kHz
Impedance: 600 ohms
Weight: approx. 74g
Price: $29.95

Sennheiser Orpheus (1991)

In 1991, the German manufacturer presented a pair of headphones that redefined high-end standards: the Sennheiser Orpheus. A true marvel of audiophile engineering, this system combines electrostatic headphones with a marble tube amplifier, guaranteeing sound purity that was unrivaled at the time. Produced in a limited series, the Orpheus quickly became a legend, long considered the best headphone audio system in the world.

The Sennheiser’s Orpheus, launched in 1991, redefined high-end with its electrostatic headphones and tube amp.

Almost 25 years later, Sennheiser unveiled its successor, the HE-1, an even more ambitious masterpiece, once again pushing the boundaries of high-fidelity. If the original Orpheus made its mark with its revolutionary approach to exceptional headphone audio, the HE-1 continues this legacy.

Open-back, over-ear headphones
Electrostatic transducers with integrated tube amplifier
Frequency response: 8Hz – 100kHz
Connector: proprietary (connected to its dedicated amplifier)
Weight: approx. 550g (excluding amplifier)
Price: $16,000

Sennheiser HD 25 (1988)

Originally designed for professional monitoring, these closed-back, lightweight and rugged headphones quickly became a major reference in journalism, DJing and studios. Thanks to their excellent sound isolation and clear, punchy, analytical sound signature, they became the ally of audio professionals the world over. The distinctive double headband offered exemplary ergonomics.

Closed-back, on-ear headphones
Dynamic transducers
Frequency response: 16Hz – 22kHz
Impedance: 70 ohms
Weight: approx. 140g
Price: €69

Plantronics MS50 (1962)

Long before headphones became everyday items, the Plantronics MS50, launched in the 1960s, set the standard… in the air! Designed for aviation, these ultra-light headphones were adopted by NASA and even made history by accompanying astronauts on Apollo missions, including the iconic Apollo 11, which saw Neil Armstrong set foot on the Moon. With its minimalist design, integrated microphone and optimized comfort for long hours of communication, the MS50 has redefined the standards of aeronautical audio.

*The Plantronics MS50, ultra-light headphones designed for aviation, made history by accompanying astronauts on Apollo missions, including Apollo 11.*

Although far removed from the sonic concerns of the Koss SP/3 and Sennheiser Orpheus, the MS50 proves that innovation in headphones is not limited to music. Its legacy lives on today in numerous models for pilots and communications professionals. Few headphones can claim to have played such an important role in the history of mankind!

Over-ear headphones
Dynamic transducers
Connector: PJ-068 plug (aviation standard).
Weight: approx. 31g

Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro (1985)

In 1985, Beyerdynamic launched a pair of headphones that would become a major studio reference: the DT 770 Pro. Designed for recording, mixing and monitoring, these closed-back headphones made a name for themselves thanks to their excellent sound isolation, exceptional comfort and, above all, their balanced, precise sound signature.

Over the decades, the DT 770 Pro have become an indestructible classic, used by sound engineers, producers and musicians alike. Their sturdiness and comfort make them an ideal ally for long studio sessions, while their accurate sound reproduction have allowed them to stand the test of time.

*The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro combine excellent audio isolation, great comfort and precise sound, influencing later headphone generations.*

Closed-back, over-ear headphones
Dynamic transducers
Frequency response: 5Hz – 35kHz
Variable impedance (32, 80 and 250 ohms)
Weight: approx. 270g
Price: €138

Beyerdynamic DT 1990/1770 Pro

Following in the footsteps of the DT 770/880/990, the Beyerdynamic DT 1990/1770 Pro headphones

continue a legacy that began in the 1980s, while bringing significant improvements in terms of clarity, spatial imaging and robustness. While some headphones mark history through their design or their iconic audience, the DT 1770 and 1990 Pro are among the must-haves in professional audio, once again confirming Beyerdynamic’s place in the pantheon of reference headphones.

*Designed in the 1980s, the Beyerdynamic DT 1770 and 1990 Pro headphones are now available in MKII versions.*

Closed-back and open-back over-ear headphones
Dynamic transducers
Frequency response: 5Hz – 40kHz
Impedance: 250 ohms
Weight: approx. 388g
Price: €599

Grado SR60 (1990)

Another big name in hi-fi, Grado gained a reputation in the world of home audio with a model that has since gained cult status: the SR60. Launched as an affordable gateway to audiophile sound, these open-back headphones impressed with their warm, detailed sound, highlighting the New York brand’s characteristic midrange and treble. They were also appreciated for their ultra-light design, making them easy to wear for long periods.

An affordable gateway to the audiophile headphone world with its retro, handcrafted design, the Grado SR60 is now one of the brand’s cult models.

With their minimalist retro design and leather-covered metal headband, the SR60 perfectly embody the artisanal spirit of Grado, which still makes its headphones by hand in Brooklyn. A true benchmark for those wishing to discover Grado sound on a reasonable budget, it paved the way for the brand’s more prestigious models (Signature HP100SE, GS3000x, GS1000x…) while influencing the world of open-back headphones dedicated to pure music and sonic emotion.

On-ear headphones, open-back
Dynamic transducers
Frequency response: 20Hz – 20kHz
Impedance: 32 ohms
Weight: approx. 210g
Price: €100

Grado SR325 (1994)

Continuing the brand’s heritage of open-back headphones offering lively, detailed sound, the SR325 stand out for their high level of clarity, precise tonal balance and ability to reproduce the subtlest nuances of recordings. Unlike more affordable models such as the SR60, they offer a more refined listening experience, with better low frequency control and acute highs, while retaining Grado’s trademark warm sound signature.

On-ear headphones, open-back
Dynamic transducers
Frequency response: 18Hz – 24kHz
Impedance: 32 ohms
Weight: approx. 340g
Price: €435

Audeze LCD-4 (2015)

With the LCD-4, in 2015 the Californian brand released an exceptional pair of headphones, designed to deliver the ultimate sound experience. Equipped with ultra-fine nano-carbon membranes and a powerful Fluxor magnet system, they deliver a high-precision, rich reproduction.

*The Audeze LCD-4 combine cutting-edge technology with luxurious design, confirming their status as a benchmark in high-fidelity.*

Their luxurious design, combining zebrano wood, machined aluminum and lambskin leather, reinforces their status as exceptional headphones. Like the Sennheiser Orpheus and HE-1, the LCD-4 is a technical masterpiece, confirming Audeze’s ability to rival the ultimate in high-fidelity.

Open-back, over-ear headphones
106mm planar-magnetic transducers with nano-grade diaphragm
Frequency response: 5Hz – 20kHz
Impedance: 200 ohms
Weight: approx. 600g
Price: €4,499

Sony MDR-R10 (1989)

Launched in 1989, the legendary Sony MDR-R10 laid the foundations for ultra-high-end audiophile models. With only 2000 units produced, these headphones stood out with their revolutionary design: zelkova wood ear cups, carefully selected for their acoustic properties, and a Bio-Cellulose diaphragm capable of reproducing a sound that is both natural and detailed, with exceptional fullness and warmth. A holy grail for collectors, they are still considered to be some of the finest dynamic headphones ever created.

*Launched in 1989 with a limited production of 2000 units, the Sony MDR-R10 remains an audiophile legend thanks to its revolutionary design and exceptional sound.*

Type: over-ear, closed-back
50mm dynamic transducers
Weight: approx. 400g
Price: $2,500

Sony MDR-7506 (1991)

While the Sony MDR-R10 was becoming a reference in high-fidelity, Sony was simultaneously developing a pair of headphones for an entirely different purpose: professional monitoring. The Sony MDR-7506 quickly became a standard in studios around the world. Thanks to their neutral, accurate sound, good isolation and comfort, they won over sound engineers, directors and musicians, making their mark in recording studios, TV studios and radio stations.

*The Sony MDR-7506 headphones have become a standard in professional monitoring, becoming a firm favorite in studios, radio stations and TV studios alike.*

Closed-back, over-ear headphones
Dynamic transducers
Frequency response: 10Hz – 20kHz
Impedance: 24 ohms
Weight: approx. 260g

Focal Utopia (2016)

Focal imposed its French savoir-faire with the Utopia, launched in 2016. Designed as the ultimate audiophile headphones, it was the first model to incorporate pure beryllium dome transducers, an innovation that gives it exceptional lightness and rigidity, guaranteeing unrivaled transparency. Its luxurious design blends carbon, leather and aluminum for a visual experience that matched its sound. A true showcase for Focal’s expertise, these headphones are an essential reference among exceptional open-back models.

*The Focal Utopia hi-fi headphones benefit from pure beryllium transducers, offering unrivaled transparency.*

Open-back, over-ear headphones
40mm dynamic transducers
Frequency response: 5Hz – 50kHz
Impedance: 80 ohms
Weight: approx. 490g
Price: €5,000

Audio-Technica ATH-M50x (2014)

An evolution of the ATH-M50, over the years the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x have established themselves as an essential classic in the world of monitoring and versatile listening. Thanks to their excellent value for money, they’re just as popular with sound engineers, musicians, DJs and content creators, as they are with music lovers in search of immersive sound. Their closed, circum-aural design ensures good sound isolation, while the swiveling ear cups and detachable cable make these headphones practical for listening sessions in the studio and on the go.

*An evolution of the ATH-M50, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x has become a must for monitoring thanks to its excellent value for money and practical design.*

Closed-back, over-ear headphones
45mm dynamic transducers
Frequency response: 15Hz – 28kHz
Impedance: 38 ohms
Weight: approx. 285g
Price: €169

AKG K240 Studio (2001)

Following in the footsteps of the AKG K1000, the AKG K240 Studio headphones are another essential reference for studio mixing and monitoring. Thanks to their semi-open design, they deliver a natural, detailed sound, while retaining some sonic isolation. Appreciated by sound engineers and musicians alike, this model remains a standard in studios the world over, alongside classics such as the Sony MDR-7506 and the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro.

The AKG K240 Studio, with their semi-open design, have become a studio reference thanks to their natural, detailed sound, remaining a standard in mixing and monitoring.

On-ear, semi-open headphones
30mm dynamic transducers
Frequency response: 15Hz – 25kHz
Impedance: 55 ohms
Weight: approx. 240g
Price: €99

Shure SRH1540 (2013)

Initially specializing in stage microphones and in-ear monitors, Shure demonstrated its expertise in the world of headphones with the SRH1540. Designed for audiophiles and sound professionals alike, these closed-back, over-ear headphones combine comfort, isolation and a detailed sound reproduction. Equipped with 40mm neodymium transducers and aluminum and carbon fiber ear cups, they deliver a warm, balanced sound and are an excellent alternative to conventional monitoring models. With their lightweight, ergonomic design, coupled with Alcantara ear pads, they are appreciated for their optimal comfort for long listening sessions and studio work.

The Shure SRH1540 combine comfort and detailed sound with neodymium transducers and a lightweight design.

Type: over-ear, closed-back
40mm dynamic transducers
Frequency response: 5Hz – 25kHz
Impedance: 46 ohms
Weight: approx. 286g
Price: €579

Bowers & Wilkins P9 Signature (2016)

Launched in 2016 to celebrate 50 years of Bowers & Wilkins, the P9 Signature embodies the acoustic expertise and premium elegance of the British brand. Known for its hi-fi speakers prized by studios and audiophiles alike, B&W wanted to offer an immersive and refined listening experience with these closed-back headphones. Designed with angled transducers for better spatialization and a more natural sound reproduction, the B&W P9 Signature offer a rich sound, with deep bass and crystal-clear highs, in keeping with the brand’s hi-fi traditions. Their luxurious design, combining Saffiano leather and aluminum, makes them as sophisticated as they are powerful.

B&W P9 Signature review — *The Bowers & Wilkins P9 Signature combines luxury and high-end acoustics with its angled transducers.*

Closed-back, over-ear headphones
40mm dynamic transducers
Frequency response: 2Hz – 30kHz
Impedance: 22 ohms
Weight: approx. 413g
Price: €899

Stax Lambda (1982)

Launched in the 1980s, the Stax Lambda marked a major turning point in the history of high-end audio by introducing electrostatic headphones to the general public. This model established Stax as a leader in electrostatic technology, offering incredibly precise sound, characterized by perfect highs, a natural midrange and extremely controlled bass. With its ultra-fine diaphragm and mesh electrodes, the Lambda offered a fast response and beautiful clarity, which quickly made it a preferred choice for audiophiles in search of perfect sound reproduction.

*The Stax Lambda democratized electrostatic headphones, offering exceptional sonic precision.*

Open-back, over-ear headphones
Electrostatic transducers

Stax SR-009 (2011)

With the SR-009, the Japanese brand reached a new pinnacle of sonic finesse and transparency. Designed for the most discerning music lovers, these headphones use ultra-fine polymer film membranes and metal mesh electrodes, delivering unrivaled precision and speed. The result is an incredibly spacious and detailed soundstage, where every nuance is rendered with clarity.

The Stax SR-009 headphones push the boundaries of sonic realism with its ultra-thin membranes and an open soundstage.

Like the legendary Sennheiser Orpheus or the more recent Audeze LCD-4, the SR-009 provide an incredibly realistic sound, but require a dedicated electrostatic amplifier to reveal their full potential. Their design, combining machined aluminum and leather pads, reflects a concern for excellence that has made Stax one of the most respected names in audio. A true icon for extreme hi-fi enthusiasts, the SR-009 remains, even today, an essential electrostatic reference.

Open-back, over-ear headphones
Electrostatic transducers
Frequency response: 5Hz – 42kHz
Weight: approx. 454g
Price: €4,990

HiFiMAN HE1000 V2 (2016)

Launched in 2016, the HiFiMAN HE1000 V2 represent the culmination of years of innovation in the world of magnetic planar headphones. Thanks to ultra-fine diaphragms and asymmetrical magnet technology, the HE1000 V2 manage to deliver a wide, airy soundstage, with deep bass, detailed mids and bright highs. Improved ergonomics compared to the first version, with a lighter, more comfortable design, enable extended listening sessions without fatigue, while maintaining a very high level of sonic performance.

*The metal and wood frame of the HiFiMAN HE1000V2 headphones lends a luxurious edge to a pair of headphones that are already impressive from a musical perspective.*

Open-back, over-ear headphones
Magnetic planar transducers
Frequency response: 8Hz – 65kHz
Impedance: 35 ohms
Weight: approx. 420g
Price: €3,099

HiFiMAN Sundara (2017)

The HiFiMAN Sundara is another of the brand’s iconic magnetic planar headphone models, offering excellent sound performance at an affordable price. Their elegant, lightweight design ensures optimum comfort for extended listening sessions, while their music reproduction is clear and immersive. The Sundara quickly became a reference for music lovers seeking an impressive listening experience without the cost of more expensive models such as the famous HE1000 or Shangri-La.

*The HiFiMAN Sundara Planar Magnetic headphones combine sound performance, comfort and affordability.*

Open-back, over-ear headphones
Magnetic planar transducers
Frequency response: 6Hz – 75kHz
Impedance: 37 ohms
Weight: approx. 372g
Price: €499

Bang & Olufsen U70 (1978)

Another hi-fi classic, the Bang & Olufsen U70 headphones embody the Danish brand’s characteristic elegance and innovation. With their refined design and exceptional comfort, the U70 marked a turning point in the world of hi-fi headphones thanks to their crystal-clear reproduction and deep bass. At a time when the majority of headphones were primarily utilitarian, the U70 was one of the first to offer a combination of acoustic performance and luxury, establishing itself as an avant-garde model. Its solid construction and listening comfort have made it an audio classic, still prized by collectors and fans of the brand.

*The Bang & Olufsen U70 combines elegance and innovation, marking a turning point in hi-fi.*

Semi-open, over-ear headphones
Orthodynamic transducers
Weight: approx. 300 g
Price: around €200

Philips Fidelio X1/2 (2012/2014)

The Philips Fidelio X1 and X2 left their mark on the world of hi-fi, combining sound performance with wearing comfort. The Fidelio X1, with their open-back design, offered a wide soundstage and exceptional reproduction of audio detail, particularly in the midrange and highs. The Philips Fidelio X2 refined this experience, with deeper bass, improved sound clarity and enhanced comfort thanks to an aluminum headband and memory foam ear pads. These headphones quickly proved popular with music lovers looking for high-fidelity performance at a relatively affordable price. As a result, they rapidly became the benchmark for open-back headphones with a lightweight, comfortable design and richly detailed sound.

*The Philips Fidelio X1 and X2 have made their mark on hi-fi, offering outstanding sound performance at an affordable price.*

Open-back, over-ear headphones
50mm transducers
Frequency response: 10Hz – 40kHz
Impedance: 30 ohms
Sensitivity: 100 dB
Weight: 408g
Price: €299

Over the decades, these hi-fi headphones have redefined how we experience sound, combining technological innovations, comfort and exceptional design. Today, they continue to influence the latest wired and Bluetooth hi-fi models. Which model made the biggest impression on you?